Nuriootpa Wine Trail [1 day]

A guest submission from Jess Ruciack at Elderton Wines. Elderton is run by second generation brothers, Cameron and Allister, and together they work to uphold the values and traditions that were originally set by their parents, proudly winning the Silver Award for Cellar Doors at the 2015 and 2016 South Australian Tourism Awards.

The Nuriootpa Wine Trail allows you to explore the wineries of Nuriootpa via an easy to follow map. Many of our wineries are only a few hundred metres from each other, with the total distance of the trail being just over 8km. This makes it perfect for a day itinerary. If you don’t wish to drive, cycling to each of the Nuriootpa wineries is certainly possible for all levels of experience. Hire bikes from Barossa Tourist Park or the Barossa Visitor Information Centre. If you would prefer to be chauffeured by an experienced guide, a number of local services are available for hire - click here for more information!

Morning:

Gibson Wines is nestled in the outskirts of Nuriootpa and is owned by passionate Barossans Rob and Anne Gibson. Rob’s handcrafted wines are made from sites selected across the Barossa. Known for their Sunday Funday events, feel like part of the family when you visit Gibson Wines at the Cellar Door, which along with the 1800s cottage provides a great setting for a tasting. Be sure to ask about the Sparkling Merlot and the Old Vine Shiraz.

For a bit of Barossa history, just 1.6km away you will find The Willows Vineyard where Peter and Tracy Scholz have developed the Scholz family heritage of the property which originally boasted the Barossa’s first private hospital. The family’s vineyard was planted in 1936 and today forms an important part of The Willows wines. The Cellar Door is adjacent to the old hospital building. Be sure to ask about The Doctor sparkling red and The Bonesetter Shiraz.

Next visit Elderton Wines, a little over 5km from The Willows, just off the main street of Nuriootpa. Nestled among the 1894 Command Vineyard, the Cellar Door has many great spaces to give you the experience you desire. Enjoy a casual wine tasting at the bar, or a more structured and indulgent experience, or simply relax and enjoy a glass of wine with a local produce platter. Be sure to ask about the Eden Valley Chardonnay and the Command Shiraz.

Head 500m down the road to Penfolds where you are able to enjoy a tasting at the Cellar Door tasting bar or experience the world-renowned Grange and other Penfolds premium wines. Be sure to ask about the RWT Shiraz.

Lunch into the afternoon:

Not even 100m from Penfolds, the First Drop Wines cellar door is Home of the Brave, a converted 1930s still house with a funky and fun vibe. The First Drop crew offers wine flights, allowing you to explore the range, whilst enjoying simple but flavourful tapas. Be sure to ask about The Matador and Mother’s Milk.

Local tip: First Drop Wines are open Wednesday to Saturday. If you are on the trail another day, instead try platters at Elderton Wines, The Vine Inn for meals, or Linke’s Bakery and Teahouse in the main street for a quick bite.

Around 500m further is Kaelser Wines. Here you can enjoy a guided old vine tasting, enjoying eight premium wines. Be sure to ask about The Bogan and The Old Bastard.

Last, but certainly not least, is a visit to Yelland & Papps (around 900m from Kaesler). The cosy cottage with a beautiful lawn is sure to provide a great spot to finish the Nuriootpa Wine Trail. You might also be lucky enough to find some home-grown produce, such as walnuts, being sold by the kids. Be sure to ask about the Second Take Vermentino and the Divine Grenache.

End the Nuriootpa Wine Trail back at The Vine Inn for a cleansing ale and casual evening meal in Billy Jack’s Bar & Courtyard or the Vine Garden Bistro, with a menu featuring fresh, local produce.

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